Streams

Smartphones And Mealtime: Turn Device-Avoidance Into A Game

Monday, March 24, 2014

One way to avoid checking your phone at mealtime? Stack 'em up in the middle of the table.
(iStockPhoto)

We are having a running conversation about what's acceptable and what isn't when it comes to checking our smartphones during various situations. My original question had to do with mealtime, in which previously it was considered rude to check your phone during dinner. It appears attitudes are changing around that, but some of you, like me, still prize those quiet moments of reflection without a device to turn to. Or just hanging out with another human, unmediated by a shiny object.

"When I get together with friends, we pile all the phones in the center of the table and then make it [a] competition to see who can not grab their phone the longest. This really helps us appreciate the moments more."

If you want to challenge yourself to be more fully present at mealtime, you could always make it a game.

Update at 4:15pm ET: An addendum to the game, from our friend on Twitter:

Related

WNYC 93.9 FM and AM 820 are New York's flagship public radio
stations, broadcasting the finest programs from NPR, PRI and American Public Media, as well as a wide range of award-winning local
programming. WNYC is a division of
New York Public Radio.